Dog owners know it: going on vacation with your dog is not that easy. If air travel is out of the question and your dream hotel does not allow dogs, your options are limited. But a bike trip is an ideal option for you and your faithful friend to experience adventures and have an unforgettable time. Find out everything you need to know to plan a successful cycling vacation with your dog!

Preparations for a bike trip with your dog

Preparation is the be-all and end-all, especially when traveling with your dog. It is important to get your dog used to cycling in advance. Once that is done, you can take care of everything else for you and your four-legged friend.

First step: Get your dog used to cycling

(Almost) every healthy dog can go on a bike tour. However, you should get your four-legged friend used to the bike slowly. Start by getting to know the bike. In the next step, you can let the dog run alongside the bike. The training sessions should not take more than 5 minutes at the beginning and should be increased slowly. And a dog also has to get used to a trailer or bike basket.

The right equipment

A trailer, a sidecar or, for small dogs, a bicycle basket are a good way to give your dog a break and cover longer distances together. Otherwise, don’t forget the leash and make sure you have enough food. Towels for drying off and a comfortable blanket are also part of the luggage.

Route planning with a dog

When planning your route, bear in mind that your dog, depending on its size and breed, can only cover a limited number of kilometers per day. As a rule, you can easily cover 5 kilometers with a small dog, 10 kilometers with a medium-sized dog, and up to 20 kilometers with a Husky. With a trailer, you can plan longer distances, but even then, sufficient breaks should be planned. Also make sure that the route is on quiet side streets. Since a dog’s paw is very sensitive, you should avoid asphalt, especially at high temperatures.

Arrival and departure with your dog

After you have chosen your route, you should plan your arrival and departure. For example, you can travel by train or by car. You know your dog best and know what he is used to.

Overnight stays with your dog

It’s not easy to choose accommodation spontaneously with a dog, because four-legged friends are not welcome everywhere. Therefore, find out in advance about accommodation options along the route. In addition to hotels and guest houses, camping could also be an option for you.

Food and drink – for dogs and owners

Part of the preparation is also the provisions for you and your dog. Keep in mind that there are not on every route water in the form of lakes or rivers. For this reason, you should always also have a water bowl and drinking water for your dog. What else you need for a successful bike tour, you can discover on our packing list bicycle tour.

Tips for a successful cycling holiday with your dog

• Have your dog under control: One of the most important things for cycling with a dog is that your furry friend is absolutely obedient in every situation. Otherwise, accidents and injuries can quickly occur while cycling.
• Avoid heat: When cycling with a dog, it is important to avoid heat, as direct sunlight without cooling down can be too much for your dog. Remember that you feel a much stronger headwind on the bike than your four-legged friend down on the asphalt. Also make sure that not only you, but also your dog, drink enough.
• Pace adapted to the dog: In this context, the pace should also be adapted to the dog. The pace is right when your dog can run alongside the bike at a light trot. Different rules apply depending on the breed and size of the dog.
• Plan enough breaks: Besides the adjusted pace, it is important to give your dog enough breaks. Especially in the midday heat, regular cooling off at the lake, in the river or in the shade is important. But there should also be enough time for playing and sniffing.
• Centre-based tours as an option: Are you still unsure whether a multi-day bike tour with your dog is the right thing to do? Then why not start with a centre-based tour and see how it goes and which routes you can cover together.

Whatever you decide, we at RAD+REISEN will be happy to help you plan and organize your cycling holiday with your dog. This way, you can concentrate fully on yourself and your four-legged friend. Whether it’s pre-booked accommodation, the latest rental bikes or a 7-day service hotline, we will make your cycling holiday a success that is not only fun for you but also for your dog.

The most beautiful destinations for a multi-day bike tour with your dog

Your dog is fit for cycling and you are wondering where to go on your bike tour? Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands offer short distances and wonderful tours.

Cycling with your dog in Germany

Especially on your first bike trip with your dog, it is advantageous if the journey there is short and you are well informed about the climate and local conditions. How about a trip by bike and boat along the Rhine or through the Franconian region, for example?

Cycling with your dog in Austria and Switzerland

Austria and Switzerland offer breathtaking cycle paths and mountain panoramas. There are also routes that are suitable for dogs and their owners. Among the most beautiful cycling tours in Austria is the danube cycle path between Passau and Vienna. The Swiss Rhône Cycle Path, on the other hand, is one of the most popular cycling tours in Switzerland.

Cycling with your dog in Holland

Holland is the land of cyclists! Cycling tours in Holland are exciting and varied. For example, discover Holland’s tulip blossom or Holland’s Hanseatic cities by bike and boat.

FAQs: Frequently asked questions about cycling holidays with your dog

How long can you ride a bike with a dog?

A small, healthy dog can easily run alongside the bike for up to 5 kilometers a day. A medium-sized dog can manage up to 10 kilometers, and a sled dog can usually manage up to 20 kilometers without any problems.

From what age can I take my dog with me on a bike tour?

For a bike tour, your dog should be fully grown and at least 1 to 1.5 years old, depending on the breed. In addition, a vet should confirm that your dog is in good health and fit for cycling. Please bear in mind that an older dog may no longer be fit enough for a bike tour.

What equipment do I need for a bike tour with a dog?

For a bike tour with a dog, you ideally need a trailer or, for smaller dogs, a bicycle basket. A towel, a water bowl and water, as well as a blanket, are also useful.